Katherine Paterson's The Master Puppeteer stands out as a significant milestone in her writing career, marking her first step into the limelight with substantial critical recognition. Celebrated with the National Book Award for Children’s Literature in 1977, the novel also contended for notable accolades such as the Edgar Allan Poe Award and American Book Award in subsequent years. Paterson, who had previously authored The Sign of the Chrysanthemum and Of Nightingales That Weep, draws upon her rich experiences in Japan—a place she intimately knew through years of study and teaching. Her firsthand exposure to Bunraku theater in Japan deeply informs the narrative fabric of The Master Puppeteer, enhancing its authenticity. Paterson's meticulous research, including interviews with contemporary Japanese puppeteers, pays homage to the traditional art form with exceptional depth and insight.

The novel also anticipates themes prevalent in Paterson’s later works, such as Bridge to Terabithia and Jacob Have I Loved, which similarly explore characters navigating the complexities of familial and social challenges. In these narratives, protagonists like Jiro from The Master Puppeteer confront and transcend their circumstances, revealing latent talents and forging genuine friendships. Paterson's adept weaving of adventure and mystery with historical context and psychological depth categorizes this work as a Künstlerroman, a narrative focusing on the protagonist's artistic growth and self-discovery. This alignment with other revered young adult novels, such as Elizabeth de Trevino’s I, Juan de Pareja, reinforces its thematic resonance and timeless appeal.

The novel’s unique blend of adventure, mystery, and historical and psychological realism captures the imagination of readers, maintaining its popularity through the years. The Master Puppeteer not only garners appreciation for its narrative ingenuity but also secures its place as a pivotal contribution to young adult literature, standing testament to Paterson’s enduring influence in the literary world.